Name: Creamy Garlic Parm Chicken & Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 tbsp olive oil, plus more for cooking; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 lb (450g) twisted pasta (e.g., rotini, cavatappi, fusilli); Salt for pasta water; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced; 6-8 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth; 1½ cups (360ml) heavy cream; 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened, cubed; 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Handful fresh spinach (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cheesy Twisted Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a culinary embrace that promises to delight your senses from the very first bite. Imagine a generous bowl filled with al dente pasta, each twist perfectly coated in a velvety, rich sauce. This isn’t just any sauce, mind you. We’re talking about a luxuriously creamy concoction, infused with the aromatic punch of fresh garlic and the sharp, irresistible nuttiness of aged Parmesan cheese, beautifully complemented by tender, succulent pieces of chicken.

While the precise ancient origins of this specific combination might be modern, it proudly stands on the shoulders of generations of pasta-making traditions, particularly those beloved Italian-American comfort food classics that warm the soul. This dish has quickly become a modern staple because it perfectly marries accessible ingredients with gourmet-level satisfaction, making it both incredibly fulfilling and surprisingly straightforward to prepare for any home cook.

Why This Dish Captures Hearts and Appetites

People absolutely adore this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cheesy Twisted Pasta for countless reasons. Firstly, the harmonious blend of savory chicken and the vibrant garlic-Parmesan sauce creates an unparalleled flavor profile that is both comforting and sophisticated. Secondly, the texture contrast – the tender chicken, the perfectly cooked twisted pasta, and the smooth, cheesy sauce – provides a delightful mouthfeel with every forkful. It’s the ultimate go-to for a cozy family dinner, a welcoming meal for guests, or when you simply crave a deeply satisfying, flavorful dish that feels truly special without requiring hours in the kitchen. I am truly excited for you to discover the magic within each spoonful!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, about 3-4 pieces. I love using a mix sometimes for different textures, but breasts are fantastic for this.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for cooking. A good quality extra virgin olive oil always makes a difference.
- 1 teaspoon paprika, for that lovely color and mild flavor kick.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, a classic blend that always works wonders with chicken and pasta.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder, because you can never have enough garlic in a creamy pasta dish, can you?
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, adjust to your liking for a subtle warmth, or a stronger kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Don’t be shy, seasoning is key!
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb (450g) twisted pasta, such as rotini, cavatappi, or fusilli. I find these shapes truly capture the creamy sauce and hold onto all that cheesy goodness perfectly.
- Salt for pasta water, a generous amount, like the sea!
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Butter adds such a rich, foundational flavor to any sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil. Combining butter and olive oil helps prevent the butter from burning too quickly.
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced. It melts into the sauce and adds a subtle sweetness.
- 6-8 cloves garlic, minced. Yes, 6-8! This is a “Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cheesy Twisted Pasta” recipe, after all!
- 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth, low sodium is preferred so you can control the saltiness later.
- 1½ cups (360ml) heavy cream (also known as whipping cream). This is where the magic happens for that luscious, creamy texture.
- 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes. This is my secret weapon for an extra thick, cheesy, and incredibly smooth sauce.
- 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving. Freshly grated makes all the difference in flavor and meltability compared to pre-shredded.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, to echo the flavors in the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, if you want to enhance that gentle warmth.
- Optional: A handful of fresh spinach, wilted into the sauce for a touch of green and added nutrition.
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped. A sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens up the entire dish visually and aromatically.
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese. Because why not?

Preparing the Chicken:

First things first, let’s get our chicken ready. Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step is super important for achieving that beautiful golden-brown sear. Once dry, place them on a clean cutting board.
Now, we’re going to season them generously. In a small bowl, combine the 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes. Give it a good mix. Sprinkle this seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the chicken, along with a good pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Make sure every surface is covered; don’t be shy, we want flavorful chicken that stands out in our “Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cheesy Twisted Pasta.” Gently rub the seasoning into the chicken so it adheres well.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (my cast iron pan is perfect for this) over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be shimmering, but not smoking. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if you have too much chicken, cook it in batches. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of searing it, and we’re aiming for that gorgeous, slightly crispy exterior.
Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it’s beautifully golden-brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken. Use tongs to flip them gently. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a clean plate or cutting board and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains tender and moist. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!
After the chicken has rested, slice it into bite-sized pieces or strips. We’ll add this back into our amazing creamy sauce later. Keep it warm.

Building the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

Now, let’s get started on the heart of our dish: the incredibly rich and flavorful creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Using the same skillet you used for the chicken (don’t clean it! Those browned bits, or “fond,” are packed with flavor), reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Let the butter melt and combine with the oil.
Add the finely diced medium yellow onion to the skillet. Sauté the onion for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has softened and become translucent. We’re not looking for browning here, just a gentle softening to release its natural sweetness.
Next, add the star of the show: the 6-8 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant. Be very careful not to let the garlic brown or burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter very quickly and will spoil the wonderful flavor of our “Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cheesy Twisted Pasta.”
Pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon or spatula to release all those delicious browned bits from the chicken. This step, called deglazing, adds an incredible depth of flavor to the sauce. Let the broth simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
Reduce the heat to low. Now, slowly whisk in the 1½ cups of heavy cream. Stir constantly as you add it to ensure everything combines smoothly. Immediately after, add the 4 oz of softened cream cheese, cut into cubes. Continue whisking until the cream cheese has completely melted into the sauce, creating a beautifully smooth and velvety consistency. This is the secret to an extra rich and thick sauce.
Once the cream cheese is fully incorporated, gradually add the 1½ cups of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until it melts into the sauce. Keep the heat on low to prevent the cheese from clumping or seizing. The sauce will thicken beautifully as the Parmesan melts.
Season the sauce with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and if you like, another ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt as needed. Remember, the chicken broth and Parmesan cheese already contribute some salt, so add it cautiously until it’s perfect for your palate. If you’re using fresh spinach, now is the time to stir it in, allowing it to wilt for a minute or two.

Cooking the Twisted Pasta:

While you’re working on the sauce, or just before, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. It’s crucial to use a very large pot with plenty of water for cooking pasta, as this allows the pasta to cook evenly and prevents it from sticking together.
Once the water is boiling vigorously, add a generous amount of salt – it should taste like the sea! This is the only chance you have to season the pasta itself from the inside out, making it flavorful.
Add your 1 lb of twisted pasta (rotini, cavatappi, or fusilli work wonderfully here) to the boiling water. Stir immediately to prevent the pasta from sticking.
Cook the pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. This means it should be tender but still have a slight bite to it. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and won’t hold up well in our rich sauce. It typically takes about 8-12 minutes depending on the pasta shape.
Before draining, scoop out about 1 to 1½ cups of the starchy pasta cooking water and set it aside. This reserved water is liquid gold! It can be used later to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick, adding creaminess and helping the sauce cling to the pasta even better thanks to its starch content.
Drain the cooked pasta thoroughly in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta; rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce adhere to it, and we definitely want all that glorious “Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cheesy Twisted Pasta” sauce to stick!

Bringing It All Together: The Cheesy Twisted Pasta Creation:

Now for the grand finale – combining all these delicious components into one spectacular dish! Add the sliced, cooked chicken back into the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce in the skillet. Stir gently to coat the chicken pieces completely with the rich sauce.
Add the drained, cooked twisted pasta directly into the skillet with the chicken and sauce.
Using tongs or a large spoon, toss everything together really well. Make sure every single piece of pasta and chicken is thoroughly coated in that decadent, cheesy sauce. This is where your “Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cheesy Twisted Pasta” really starts to come alive.
If the sauce seems too thick at this point (and sometimes it does, especially as the pasta absorbs some of it), gradually add a splash or two of the reserved pasta cooking water, stirring until you reach your desired creamy consistency. The starch in the pasta water will help emulsify the sauce and make it even silkier.
Do a final taste test. This is your chance to adjust any seasonings. You might want a little more salt, pepper, or even a dash more red pepper flakes if you’re craving more heat. Sometimes, I like to stir in another small handful of freshly grated Parmesan cheese right at this stage for an extra boost of cheesiness.
Continue to gently toss the pasta and chicken in the sauce for another minute or two over low heat, allowing all the flavors to meld together and the pasta to fully absorb some of the incredible sauce. The aroma filling your kitchen right now must be absolutely divine!

Serving Your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cheesy Twisted Pasta:

Once everything is perfectly combined and gloriously saucy, your “Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cheesy Twisted Pasta” is ready to be served!
Dish out generous portions into individual bowls.
Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh, chopped parsley. The vibrant green color and fresh herbaceousness provide a wonderful contrast to the rich, creamy pasta.
For the ultimate indulgence, offer extra freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the table for anyone who wishes to add even more cheesy goodness.
This dish is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, or some crusty garlic bread to soak up every last drop of that amazing sauce. Enjoy every single bite of this utterly comforting and flavorful meal!

Conclusion:

Well, my friends, we’ve reached the grand finale of our culinary journey, and I genuinely hope you’re feeling as inspired as I am about this incredible dish. There’s a reason this recipe has become such a beloved staple in my kitchen, and I am absolutely convinced it will quickly earn a spot in yours too. What makes it truly exceptional isn’t just its tantalizing aroma or its visually appealing swirl of pasta; it’s the perfect harmony of flavors and textures that dance on your palate with every single bite. We’re talking about a sauce that is impossibly smooth, rich, and utterly luxurious, clinging to every piece of pasta and tender chicken. The vibrant kick of fresh garlic, the nutty, salty depth of Parmesan, and the comforting embrace of a truly decadent cream base come together in a symphony of taste that is both sophisticated and incredibly approachable. It’s a dish that manages to feel both incredibly indulgent and surprisingly simple to master, making it a true weeknight hero and an impressive centerpiece for a special gathering. If you’re searching for that ultimate comfort food, a meal that promises to deliver warmth, satisfaction, and a smile to everyone at the table, then this is unequivocally it.

This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s an experience. The juicy, perfectly cooked chicken provides a hearty anchor, while the distinctive shape of the twisted pasta ensures that every single curve and crevice is generously coated in that luscious sauce, maximizing the flavor delivery. It’s the kind of meal that silences a table, not out of awkwardness, but because everyone is too busy savoring each mouthful. It hits all the right notes: savory, creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. I truly believe that once you taste the exquisite balance of the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cheesy Twisted Pasta, you’ll understand why I rave about it so much. It’s a dish designed to impress without requiring hours of labor, offering maximum flavor payoff for minimal effort, which, let’s be honest, is the dream for any home cook.

Beyond the Plate: Serving Ideas & Creative Twists

While this magnificent dish stands proudly on its own, a true culinary delight needing no accompaniments, I love to think about how to elevate the dining experience or adapt it for different occasions. For a simple yet elegant pairing, I highly recommend serving our star dish alongside a crisp, vibrant green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The brightness of the greens provides a wonderful contrast to the richness of the pasta, cutting through the creaminess beautifully and offering a refreshing counterpoint. A loaf of crusty, warm garlic bread is also an absolute must; not only does it complement the flavors perfectly, but it’s ideal for soaking up every last drop of that incredible creamy sauce – trust me, you won’t want a single bit to go to waste! For something a little lighter, steamed asparagus or tender-crisp broccoli florets can add both color and a healthy touch to your plate.

But let’s talk about variations, because cooking is all about creativity and making a recipe truly your own! This dish is wonderfully adaptable. Feeling like a different protein? Succulent shrimp or even Italian sausage can be fantastic substitutes for the chicken, adding their own unique flavor profiles. If you’re looking to boost your vegetable intake, consider stirring in some fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking until it wilts, or add some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of concentrated flavor and a lovely pop of color. Sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers would also be delightful additions, bringing earthy and sweet notes respectively. For those who like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred into the sauce can add a subtle warmth that truly awakens the palate. You could even experiment with different pasta shapes – while I adore the twisted pasta for its sauce-holding capabilities, penne, rigatoni, or even orecchiette would work wonderfully. And for the cheese lovers out there, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in a little extra mozzarella or a sharp cheddar for an even cheesier experience. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this recipe to your personal taste and whatever fresh ingredients you have on hand.

Your Turn to Create and Share!

Now that you have all the inspiration and ideas, the most important part comes next: I wholeheartedly encourage you, dear reader, to step into your kitchen and give this incredible recipe a try! Don’t just read about the deliciousness; experience it for yourself. I promise you, the aroma alone as it cooks will have your household eagerly anticipating dinner. This isn’t just about following instructions; it’s about the joy of creating something wonderful with your own hands and sharing it with the people you care about. Imagine the smiles around your dinner table, the satisfied sighs, and the compliments you’re bound to receive. This recipe for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cheesy Twisted Pasta is designed to bring comfort, happiness, and truly memorable flavors to your home.

After you’ve whipped up your own batch, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you stick to the original, or did you add your own creative twist? What did your family think? Please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, your successes, and perhaps even your own variations in the comments below. Your feedback and stories are what make this community so vibrant and inspiring. Take photos, tell us about your adventures, and let’s celebrate the shared love of delicious food together. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear all about your culinary triumphs!